ISLAMABAD: Mohammad Haris returned to form with a blistering half-century as Pakistan opened their Asia Cup 2025 campaign with a commanding 93-run victory over debutants Oman at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Friday.
After winning the toss and opting to bat first, Pakistan posted a modest 160-7, anchored by Haris’ aggressive 66 off 43 balls, laced with seven boundaries and three sixes. The 23-year-old partnered with Sahibzada Farhan for a crucial 85-run stand for the second wicket, steadying the innings after an early blow.
Oman’s bowlers kept the scoring in check, with left-arm spinner Aamir Kaleem (3-31) and pacer Shah Faisal (3-34) impressing on debut. Faisal struck early, dismissing Saim Ayub off just the second ball of the match, and later removed Hasan Nawaz (9) and Mohammad Nawaz (19) to complete an eye-catching first outing.
Despite the slow middle overs, Fakhar Zaman’s unbeaten 23 off 16 balls helped Pakistan add 49 runs in the final five overs to set a competitive total.
Oman, featuring several Pakistani expatriates in their lineup, crumbled in reply. Pakistan’s bowlers ran riot as Oman were skittled out for 67 in 16.4 overs.
Left-arm spinner Sufiyan Muqeem (2-7) and part-timer Saim Ayub (2-8) tore through the middle order, while seamer Faheem Ashraf (2-6) cleaned up the tail. Only Hammad Mirza offered resistance with a brisk 27 off 23 balls, including three boundaries and a six.
Pakistan will now face arch-rivals India in a high-stakes Group A clash on Sunday in Dubai, a match eagerly anticipated by fans worldwide.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh will take on Sri Lanka in a Group B fixture in Abu Dhabi on Saturday.
